Role of family, society, educational institutions in inculcating values;Attitude: Content, Structure, Function; its Influence and Relation with Thought and Behaviour; Moral and Political Attitudes; Social Influence and Persuasion.
In News: The heavy shackles of fear and vigilance
We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. How does this influence the ways in which women view themselves and their engagement with society?
The recent rape and murder of a resident doctor in India’s “safest” city, Kolkata, is an example of how crimes against women continue unabated whether in places of work, at home, while commuting, or in public spaces.This will invariably have an impact on both behavior and psychology.
Perceiving themselves:
In the absence of adequate structural protection by the state and the society, the onus of one’s safety often falls on women themselves.There is a constant need to assess and anticipate potential threats curtails her freedom to explore new places, to take risks, and to connect with others. This state of constant alertness, deeply ingrained in the psyche of women, learnt and imbibed from a young age, then becomes both necessary and exhausting.
There are also intergenerational effects as this burden is often passed on from mother to daughter, who is taught to be cautious and adjust her behaviour to stay safe. This reinforces the idea that individual women are responsible for their own safety, rather than society taking collective action to create safer environments. As a result, women are expected to adapt their behaviour.
These protective measures, thereby imposed by families and communities, restrict a woman’s mobility and freedom.The vigilance also creates a dissonance between how women live and how they wish to live.Therefore this can significantly restrict their personal, material and psychological growth.
Influencing women’s engagement with society:
- Loss of Trust: Violence can erode trust in relationships, institutions, and society as a whole. This can make it difficult for women to form healthy relationships and participate fully in community life.
- Limited Participation: Fear of violence can limit women’s participation in public spaces, education, and employment. This can restrict their opportunities and economic independence.Example:Many women decline job opportunities that require late-night travel
- Social Isolation: Violence can lead to social isolation, as women may avoid social interactions or limit their activities to avoid potential danger.
Addressing these issues requires comprehensive measures, including support services, legal protections, public awareness campaigns, and societal changes to create an environment where women can safely and actively participate in all aspects of life.
| PYQ : We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.2014 GS 4 What factors affect the formation of a person’s attitude towards social problems? In our society, contrasting attitudes are prevalent about many social problems. What contrasting attitudes do you notice about the caste system in our society? How do you explain the existence of these contrasting attitudes?2014 GS 4 |
Source:https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/the-heavy-shackles-of-fear-and-vigilance/article68569659.ece